AS PART of their pay dispute, P&O tanker drivers based at the Rossmore depot carried out the first of a number of one-day strikes on Monday.

More than 50 men in the Trans-European Spot Affreightment Division joined drivers throughout the country in taking action after talks over new contracts of employment broke down.

The Transport and General Workers' Union (T&G) claims the contracts proposed by the company would mean pay cuts of up to £5,000 a year.

Drivers were balloted and voted by more than 90% in favour of strike action. And if the matter is not resolved, further one-day strikes are threatened for next Monday and Tuesday.

T&G spokesman Ron Webb said: "These reports of 60% increases in operating profits at the same time that our members are facing up to 11% pay cuts defies belief.

"The challenge is for the company to convince our members that an 11% pay cut is justified and fair. They should come back to the negotiating table and talk to us about fair rewards for dangerous work, not unjust pay cuts."

The Spot Affreightment Division transports hazardous chemicals, making deliveries to many independent retailers.

Spokesman for P&O John Wilson said: Discussions on pay structures have been taking place for over two years.

"Unfortunately, no agreement could be achieved with the union. As a result, P&O has had no choice but to issue new contracts to the drivers involved. This action was only taken after failure to reach agreement during two years of negotiation."